We're leaving for a long-awaited visit to Charleston next week, and weather.com tells me that we can expect scattered thunderstorms every day. Would appreciate hearing from those of you who live there, or are familiar with the city's weather what exactly this means. If it's only a thunderstorm sometime during the day and then clearing, we can sure live with that. I'm only concerned about continuous rain that would make our visiting plantations, Ft. Sumter and other outside activities rather unpleasant. I know we'll enjoy our visit one way or the other, but was hoping those of you in the know can cheer me up!

Oops! That Smiley sure didn't work. I'll try again.

Scattered thunderstorms forecasts appear quite often at this time of the year in the southeast US - usually of a tropical nature. Think monsoon type rains for a short period of time - more often end of day than earlier. The type rain where you do not want to be outside, but an hour before or after would be fine - if muggy and intolerably humid.

I remember a trip to Savannah to drop son off at college 6 years ago at precisely this time of year. Returned to hotel after a brief walk along Savannah River. Housekeeping staff in elevator said "Oh, it must be raining again" - when in reality it was just so hot and humid that I appeared to have been caught in the rain. So as far as rain making outside activities unpleasant, it is possible just the heat may do so as well. Drink fluids, take respite for some time in air conditioning and you will have a good time, though.

I'm in Mount Pleasant. Late afternoon showers are frequent following the heat build up of the day. Just be prepared to duck in somewhere during a shower. Get off the beach if there's thunder. It has not been as hot here for the last few days and it's beautiful today. Don't let the thought of a little water ruin your stay-it won't.

PS "Awful" means much worse than that forecast, lol!

A forecast of "Scattered thunderstorms" doesn't usually indicate a day-long deluge; however, keep your eye on the forecast for whatever may be going on in the Atlantic.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm sure we'll do fine. We love museums and have a reciprocal with the Gibbes, which I looked forward to visiting. Also enjoy touring historical houses, so if it rains we can enjoy those activities. Hopefully get to Ft. Sumter and plantation(s) when TS has subsided.

You're right Betsy and we too are hoping some named storm doesn't head our way!!

You aren't the only one!

This question comes up frequently regarding Charleston's and the surrounding islands' weather. Most scattered thunderstorms spring up quickly and are over quickly.

I've been downtown where it darn near flooded only to return to Seabrook Island where not a drop of rain had been seen.

This summer I witnessed rain at my house when my neighbor ACROSS the street received none. Go figure!

Prepare for the worst, expect the best

Our weather for our entire time here has been terrific. Not too hot, little humidity and a great breeze every now and then. The ironic part about this is that my husband talked to his brother a couple of times and we're having thunderstorms and rain at home, which is quite unusual this time of year. I'm sure glad this is what Mother Nature decided to do!

Giovanna, are you back? Welcome home

Oh, I saw in the Lounge - you're posting from C-ston... save my welcome till you come home

Back safe and sound Dayenu. We had a really great time. Charleston is an absolutely beautiful city, filled with history, interesting architecture, nice people, good food. What more could you ask for?

I'm so glad you had a good time! Come back soon.